Mayor Maloney and members of Council unveiled a new story on the Storybook Trail at Woodchester, a Bracebridge 150 legacy project.
The new story, “Lucky the Maple Key”, is a charming tale about a maple key who shares what it’s like to live and grow in the forest. Written by local author Sue Kelly and illustrated by emerging artist Ronnie Szostak who has ties to Muskoka, this story was created especially for the town’s 150-year anniversary. This interactive outdoor reading experience winds through the scenic Woodchester grounds, offering families and visitors an opportunity to enjoy a uniquely local story while exploring the beauty of their surroundings.
In addition to the new story, the Town introduced a new public art piece, a wooden bear sculpture carved and donated by Precision Carvings, who created the sculpture live onsite during the Bracebridge 150 Community Celebration and Showcase. The Town is honoured to receive this generous gift, which adds another special touch to the Woodchester Storybook Trail and the community’s growing public art collection.
As part of the celebration, the Town is inviting the community to help name the bear sculpture. Residents and visitors are encouraged to submit their most creative, thoughtful, or fun name ideas for the sculpture for a chance to win a $150 prize to spend in the Bracebridge 150 online store. The contest is open now and will run until August 25, 2025. Submit your name suggestions at engagebracebridge.ca.
The Woodchester Storybook Trail is free to enjoy and open seasonally as the trail is not maintained in the winter. Visitors are encouraged to explore the trail, discover the new story, meet the new bear sculpture, and take in the view of the Muskoka River from the observation deck.
Learn more about the Woodchester property and trail at bracebridge.ca/woodchester.
“We are pleased to see local talent and community spirit come together to enhance the Storybook Trail as part of the town’s 150-year anniversary. This new story and the addition of the bear sculpture offer a lasting, interactive experience that families can enjoy for years to come.”
– Rick Maloney, Mayor, Town of Bracebridge
